Best Christmas Light Displays in New York City

New York City is known for doing everything in a big way, and its various Christmas Lights Displays aren't any different. It isn't just Rockefeller Plaza; almost every part of New York lights up in some way or another to celebrate the season. Here are a few of the major light displays in town, along with a few you may not have heard of before:

1. Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Plaza (49th Street)

The most famous of all lights displays in New York, this tree-lighting ceremony goes all the way back to the Depression Era of the 1930s, back before Rockefeller Center was even finished-let alone the centerpiece for heralding in the Christmas season. Not just for tourists, many longtime New York residents come here every year. The lighting ceremony takes place November 29th, from 7-9 PM, and the tree will be on display from November 29th through January 7th.

2. Dyker Lights
83rd through 86th Streets, 11th through 13th Avenues, Brooklyn

Another favorite of tourists and residents alike is the Dyker Lights display in a sub-section of the Brooklyn borough. In a friendly show of rivalry, many of the displays try to one-up the surrounding exhibits in an extravagant fashion. Several of them are crafted by professionals, incorporating lights, inflatables, moving pieces and more. While you can go directly after Thanksgiving, some of the more elaborate displays won't be available until closer to Christmas; your best bet is to wait until the second week of December. Dyker veterans suggest going on a weekend between 6 and 9 PM for the best experience.

3. Lincoln Center
Josie Robertson Plaza (64th St. and Broadway)
Not one to be outdone by Rockefeller Plaza, the Christmas tree in Lincoln Center is truly a sight to behold. Its lavish lighting ceremony on November 27th at 5 PM will include a performance by members of the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Ballet. The tree will be on display between November 27th and January 2nd.

4. Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Ave. and 82nd St.
Do you prefer a more understated, elegant display of the Christmas spirit? The come to the Met, where a 20-foot-tall tree is decorated with ornaments from the eighteenth century. Don't fret if you miss the first lighting ceremony, as there are several every day except Monday between November 21st and January 7th. The tree itself will be available for viewing during those dates as well.

5. American Museum of Natural History
Central Park West at 79th St.

While you're stopping by the Met, why not swing on over to this museum to take in the lighting display with over five hundred origami figures? The safari-themed tree fits in perfectly with the museum's premise, allowing you to enjoy the animals of the Serengeti as you breathe in the Christmas atmosphere of the lighted tree. The tree will be on display through January 1st between 10 AM and 5:45 PM.

6. Bryant Park
42nd St. and 5th Ave.

If you're in the mood for a little Canadian flavor for the holidays, this lighted tree comes all the way from Quebec to celebrate the season. With the decorations being designed by a Toronto native and the lighting ceremony being attended by Canadian Mounties, it's a taste of Christmas from our northern neighbors. The ceremony takes place on November 28th at 7 PM, and the tree can be seen from then until January 5th. So make some time in your plans to come visit this stunning display, eh?

7. South Street Seaport
Fulton and South Streets

Finally, drop by the piers to take in this beauty. Towering at over fifty feet high, this tree featured the Big Apple Chorus at its lighting ceremony, and will continue to host them every weekend until Christmas Eve. The Christmas lights themselves will be available through January 8th. Be sure to pick up some fresh fish while you're there.